How does asthma impact a Child's Life?

Imagine a kid who loves playing outside but suddenly has to stop because they can’t catch their breath. Or a child waking up at night, coughing and gasping, while their parents watch with worried eyes. Asthma can be tough for a child, affecting many parts of their life.

Everyday Challenges:

Breathing isn’t something most kids think about — it just happens. But for a child with asthma, it can feel like breathing through a straw during an attack. Running, playing sports, or even laughing too hard can trigger symptoms, forcing them to sit out while friends keep playing.

Emotional Struggles:

Asthma can make a child feel different. They might be scared of having an attack at school or frustrated because they can’t do what others can. The constant need for inhalers and doctor visits can be tiring and make them feel self-conscious.

School and Learning:

Asthma doesn’t take breaks. If flare-ups happen at night, the child might be tired and distracted the next day at school. If they miss school frequently because of asthma, catching up can be hard, adding to their stress.

Family Life:

Asthma affects the whole family. Parents may sleep lightly, always listening for coughing. They might feel helpless when their child struggles to breathe. Managing asthma can also be expensive, adding financial stress.

What causes Childhood Asthma?

It often develops during childhood when your child’s immune system is still developing. Many factors may affect how your child’s lungs develop or how their body fights germs. These include:

• Genetics: Biological family history, such as a parent who has asthma.
• Allergens: Things in the environment that affect your child, such as dust or tobacco smoke.
• Viral Infections at a young age: Respiratory infections that affect breathing, such as the common cold.

Foods to be Included:

1. Fruits and Vegetables - Apples, Berries, Leafy Green, Carrots
2. Omega 3 Rich Foods - Flax seeds, Walnuts, Chia seeds, Salmon Fish
3. Whole Grains - Brown rice, oats
4. Vitamin D Rich Foods - Eggs, Yogurt, Mushrooms
5. Magnesium Rich Foods - Spinach, Pumpkin seeds, Bananas and avocados
6. Water

Foods to be Excluded:

1. Processed and Sugary Foods - Candy, Soda, pastries, chips
2. Dairy - Milk, cheese, ice cream
3. Salty and Fried Foods - French Fries, Chips, Fast food
4. Food allergens - Peanuts, or other known allergens specific to the child
5. Sulfite-containing Foods - Dried Fruits, lime juice, Processed meats and wine

Author

Meghana JG

Child Wellness and Nutrition Consultant

Wellness Wayz